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Toyota · Known Issues

2018 Toyota Tundra Problems: 5 Known Issues

2018 model year · 39,500+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 39,500+ owner reports, the 2018 Toyota Tundra has 5 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak ($0-$1,500 repair) and Denso Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure and Stalling (Recall) ($0-$900 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak with 20,000 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $500 to $4,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Tundra Suspension1
  • Tundra Fuel System1
  • Tundra Engine3
  • Recalls15
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Suspension1
  • Fuel System1
  • Engine3
  • Recalls15
  • FAQ

All 5 Known Issues

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Community reported
20,000 owners

On the 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra, toyota recalled 2007-2021 Tundra vehicles due to defects in the power steering gear assembly that can cause oil leaks. When power steering fluid leaks from the assembly, it can result in sudden loss of power steering assist while driving.

Common Symptoms

  • Power steering fluid leak
  • Increased steering effort
  • Sudden loss of power steering assist
  • Squealing noise when turning
  • Low power steering fluid warning

How to Fix

Toyota dealers will inspect and replace the power steering gear assembly as necessary, free of charge under recall 21V920. Out-of-recall replacement costs $800-$1,500.

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Call to confirm they service Toyota vehicles and check your VIN, recall eligibility, parts availability, and appointment options.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $800-$1,500 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
  • WarningThis is a high-severity issue - ignoring it can lead to costly repairs or safety concerns. Address it promptly.
  • TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,500

Research This Issue

Based on 20,000 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence20,000 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2014-2020 Toyota Tundra, tundras built with certain Denso low-pressure (in-tank) fuel pumps have a defectively designed plastic impeller that can absorb fuel, swell/deform, and strike the pump housing — causing the pump to seize. The result is hard starting, rough running, illuminated warning lights, and engine stalling, including potentially at speed, which is a crash risk. Toyota recalled millions of Toyota/Lexus vehicles (pump part numbers beginning 23220/23221) starting January 2020 and expanded it repeatedly; affected Tundra model years fall within the 2014-2020 range. A class-action settlement created a Customer Support Program extending coverage to 15 years from original sale for fuel-pump repairs.

This issue also affects: Lexus ES, Lexus GS, Lexus IS

Common Symptoms

  • Engine stalls while driving or at idle
  • Long crank / hard starting
  • Rough running or hesitation
  • Check engine light
  • Whining or no fuel-pump prime noise
  • Fuel-related warning lights

How to Fix

Covered under Toyota recall / Customer Support Program — dealer replaces the low-pressure fuel pump with an improved-impeller design at no charge. Verify the VIN on the NHTSA or Toyota recall site. Out-of-coverage replacement involves dropping or accessing the in-tank pump assembly. Reimbursement may be available for prior out-of-pocket repairs.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $900

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Community reported
12,000 owners

On the 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra 5.7L V8, the 5.7L iForce V8 engine is known for developing oil leaks at the cam tower due to Toyota's use of gray RTV silicone sealant instead of a proper gasket from the factory. The sealant degrades over time, particularly at the rear of the cam towers where the engine is slanted.

Common Symptoms

  • Oil residue visible in wheel wells
  • Burning oil smell
  • Oil spots on driveway
  • Low oil level between changes
  • Shiny wetness around cam tower area

How to Fix

Repair requires removing the top of the engine, timing chain, and cam tower to reseal with proper RTV. This is labor-intensive and typically costs $2,500-$4,000 at a dealer. DIY is possible for experienced mechanics.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $2,500-$4,000 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
  • TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
  • TipSearch Toyota Tundra forums and owner groups for real-world experiences and DIY guides
  • TipGet multiple quotes from independent mechanics - dealer prices can be 2-3x higher for the same repair
Typical repair cost:$2,500 - $4,000

Research This Issue

Based on 12,000 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence12,000 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026
Community reported
7,500 owners

On the 2007-2019 Toyota Tundra, toyota Tundra V8 engines are prone to exhaust manifold cracking, particularly on the driver side where the air injection tube weld enters the manifold. Additionally, exhaust manifold bolts can corrode and break, causing exhaust leaks. The ticking noise is most noticeable at cold startup.

Common Symptoms

  • Ticking noise at cold startup
  • Exhaust smell in cabin
  • Hissing sound from engine bay
  • Reduced fuel economy
  • Failed emissions test

How to Fix

Repair options include welding cracks (temporary), replacing with OEM manifolds ($800-$1,500), or upgrading to aftermarket headers ($1,000-$2,500). Broken bolts require extraction. Total repair costs range from $500 to $3,000+.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Toyota 17104-50220 genuine right exhaust manifold

    replace a test-confirmed cracked or warped right 4.7L exhaust manifold Fitment/availability: Right-side 4.7L 2UZ-FE Tundra branch; use only after VIN, engine, production date, emissions and secondary-air configuration are confirmed Fitme…

    ToyotaPartsDeal
  • Toyota 17105-50210 genuine left exhaust manifold

    replace a test-confirmed cracked or warped left 4.7L exhaust manifold Fitment/availability: Left-side 4.7L 2UZ-FE Tundra branch; use only after VIN, engine, production date, emissions and secondary-air configuration are confirmed Fitment…

    ToyotaPartsDeal
  • Toyota 17104-38011 genuine right exhaust manifold

    replace a test-confirmed cracked or warped right 5.7L exhaust manifold Fitment/availability: Right-side 5.7L 3UR-FE/3UR-FBE branch; the page supersedes 17104-38010 to 17104-38011, and VIN, emissions and secondary-air configuration still …

    ToyotaPartsDeal
  • Toyota 17105-38011 genuine left exhaust manifold

    replace a test-confirmed cracked or warped left 5.7L exhaust manifold Fitment/availability: Left-side 5.7L 3UR-FE/3UR-FBE branch; the page supersedes 17105-38010 to 17105-38011, and VIN, emissions and secondary-air configuration still re…

    ToyotaPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipDIY repairs can save significantly - dealer charges $800-$1,500 but DIY costs are typically 50-70% less
  • TipConsider OEM parts for critical components like sensors and electrical parts - aftermarket can be unreliable
  • TipGet a proper diagnosis before replacing parts - similar symptoms can have different causes
Typical repair cost:$500 - $3,000

Research This Issue

Based on 7,500 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence7,500 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra 5.7L 3UR-FE V8, the 5.7L 3UR-FE is known to develop elevated oil consumption as it accumulates miles, driven by coking/sticking of the piston oil-control rings. Owners report needing to top off oil between changes, with consumption tending to worsen over time. While many trucks consume modest amounts, higher-mileage examples can burn enough oil to risk a low-oil condition and accelerate VVT-i wear if not monitored. Extended drain intervals and conventional oil accelerate the ring coking.

Common Symptoms

  • Oil level dropping between changes / frequent top-offs
  • Low-oil warning between services
  • Light blue smoke on startup or under load
  • Fouled spark plugs in higher-mileage engines

How to Fix

Monitor oil level regularly and keep it topped up. Use full-synthetic 5W-30 (or the spec'd grade) and shorten the oil-change interval to roughly 5,000 miles to limit ring coking. Severe consumption may justify an oil-control ring replacement / top-end service. Check the PCV system, as PCV faults can worsen consumption.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Toyota 12204-38030 genuine PCV valve

    replace a restricted, stuck or nonfunctional crankcase-ventilation valve found during oil-consumption diagnosis Fitment/availability: Toyota catalog lists 2008-2021 Tundra applications including the 5.7L 3UR-FE/3UR-FBE; confirm VIN and e…

    ToyotaPartsDeal

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $3,500

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
NHTSA Recalls15 recalls

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2021 Tundra vehicles. The headlight electrical circuits may power the high and low beams simultaneously, which could overheat the electrical connector.

Campaign #21V68800002/09/2021

STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2008-2022 Sequoia and 2007-2021 Tundra vehicles. The power steering gear assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in an oil leak.

Campaign #21V92000023/11/2021

STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain JTEKT power steering gear assembly service parts for 2007-2021 Tundra and 2008-2022 Sequoia, part numbers 44250-0C160, 44250-0C131, 44250-0C170, and 11250-0C121. The power steering gear assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in an oil leak.

Campaign #21E10300023/12/2021
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Other Toyota Models

Toyota RAV460Toyota Corolla54Toyota Camry54Toyota Highlander51Toyota 4Runner47Toyota Tacoma46

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Toyota Tundra problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 39,500+ owner reports, the 2018 Toyota Tundra has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak, Denso Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure and Stalling (Recall), Cam Tower Oil Leak. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Toyota Tundra reliable?

The 2018 Toyota Tundra has 5 known issues documented across 39,500+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak and Denso Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure and Stalling (Recall). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Toyota Tundra problems?

Repair costs for known Toyota Tundra issues range from $0 to $4,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak, typically costs $0-$1,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra Power Steering Gear Assembly Oil Leak?

Toyota recalled 2007-2021 Tundra vehicles due to defects in the power steering gear assembly that can cause oil leaks. When power steering fluid leaks from the assembly, it can result in sudden loss of power steering assist while driving. Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2014-2020 Toyota Tundra Denso Low-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure and Stalling (Recall)?

Tundras built with certain Denso low-pressure (in-tank) fuel pumps have a defectively designed plastic impeller that can absorb fuel, swell/deform, and strike the pump housing — causing the pump to seize. The result is hard starting, rough running, illuminated warning lights, and… Repairs typically run $0-$900. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 39,500+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Toyota 4Runner and Tundra, 2018 Toyota Highlander, RAV4 and Lexus GX460 and 2017 Toyota Sienna and Tacoma vehicles. These vehicles may have incorrect load carrying capacity modification labels. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

Campaign #17V83100020/12/2017

STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS

Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Tundra vehicles equipped with a resin rear step bumper and resin reinforcement brackets (vehicles with chrome step bumpers are not affected). In the event of an impact to the corner of the bumper, the resin bracket may be damaged but not be noticed.

Campaign #17V05100024/01/2017

+ 10 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

What is the 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra Cam Tower Oil Leak?

The 5.7L iForce V8 engine is known for developing oil leaks at the cam tower due to Toyota's use of gray RTV silicone sealant instead of a proper gasket from the factory. The sealant degrades over time, particularly at the rear of the cam towers where the engine is slanted. Repairs typically run $2,500-$4,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2007-2019 Toyota Tundra Exhaust Manifold Cracking and Bolt Failure?

Toyota Tundra V8 engines are prone to exhaust manifold cracking, particularly on the driver side where the air injection tube weld enters the manifold. Additionally, exhaust manifold bolts can corrode and break, causing exhaust leaks. The ticking noise is most noticeable at cold… Repairs typically run $500-$3,000. Severity: medium.

What is the 2007-2021 Toyota Tundra Excessive Oil Consumption from Piston Ring Coking (3UR-FE)?

The 5.7L 3UR-FE is known to develop elevated oil consumption as it accumulates miles, driven by coking/sticking of the piston oil-control rings. Owners report needing to top off oil between changes, with consumption tending to worsen over time. While many trucks consume modest am… Repairs typically run $0-$3,500. Severity: medium.